The move comes after the chain, which is one of the biggest seafood buyers in Britain, banned swordfish from its cabinets because it could not find a suitable alternative.

The ban follows a suspension of swordfish earlier in the year after a number of organisations warned that world stocks of the fish were too low to ensure future supply. Waitrose is also worried that the hooks commonly used to fish for swordfish pose a deadly threat to sea turtles, which are already at risk in many parts of the world.

Now Waitrose has said that until an ethical source of swordfish is found, the company will replace the fish with 'mahi-mahi', a fully sustainable white fish that breeds and matures quickly, enabling stocks to replenish more easily.

Quentin Clark, senior fish buyer at Waitrose, said: 'The majestic swordfish was a delicious and popular choice for our customers, but we're simply not happy to sell fish that could be endangered. Nor will we risk threatening other sea creatures which are already in urgent need of protection.'

The announcement comes after Waitrose supported the controversial new film on fishing ' The End of the Line' Mr Clark added: 'Since promoting our support for the film fish counter staff have been inundated with customers asking where their fish comes from. When reassured of our responsible policies, they are happy to buy with confidence.'

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